Insulin is an important hormone that is used to convert sugar, starches and other food into energy needed for daily life.  Insulin resistance basically means that your body cannot use insulin properly.  After you eat, food is converted to blood sugar, also called glucose. Insulin is then produced by the pancreas to deliver glucose to the body’s cells to be used as energy. When high-sugar foods and drinks are consumed, glucose levels skyrocket, kicking insulin production into high gear. When this cycle is repeated frequently, cells eventually become overwhelmed with blood sugar and stop accepting it. This condition is called insulin resistance. Insulin resistance interferes with the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels, and over time, blood sugar levels will rise. Insulin resistance, when left untreated, can increase the risk for non-insulin dependent diabetes, heart disease, and cancer.